Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Lead is a non-essential, toxic heavy metal. It is a cumulative toxin that affects many systems, including neurological, haematological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal systems. Children are particularly vulnerable to the neurotoxic effects of lead, and even relatively low levels of exposure can cause serious and, in some cases, irreversible neurological damage. This assay measures exposure to inorganic lead.
Specimen container paediatric:
Trace element tube (navy top) with lavender stripe on label, or EDTA whole blood.
Specimen container adult:
Trace element tube (navy top) with lavender stripe on label.For external users only: Navy Blue top tubes are recommended for trace element analysis, however, EDTA whole blood is also acceptable.
Minimum volume paediatric:
2 mL
Minimum volume adult:
2 mL
Sample stability:
Stable at 4 to 8°C
Transport requirements:
Ambient temperature.
Freq analysis:
Assay performed weekly.
Quality assurance:
Trace Element Quality Assurance Scheme (TEQAS) for Trace Elements
Reference ranges:
<0.23 µmol/L (<5 µg/dL)